Gucci has announced the launch of “Gucci Collector: Presented by Christie’s,” the first-ever online destination for appraising vintage Gucci products that’s actually certified by the classic Italian house. This unique partnership combines Gucci’s rich heritage with Christie’s skilled expertise as one of the world’s most esteemed auction houses. The result: A highly specialized online hub for Gucci collectors and aficionados from all over the globe.
The House of Gucci has a nearly 90-year history of producing quality luxury goods that are treasured and passed down through family generations—and avidly hunted by vintage connoisseurs. The label’s commitment to exquisite craftsmanship ensures every product is an investment piece, while classic designs render these items timeless. “Gucci Collector: Presented by Christie’s” was specifically designed for passionate collectors looking to learn more about their favorite pieces, and is sure to become the ultimate resource for vintage experts and interested novices alike.
“I feel it is a noble, appropriate and modern way to provide access to original Gucci vintage products to a relevant and well targeted audience,” said Gucci President and CEO Patrizio di Marco. “This collaboration with Christie’s is indeed fully consistent with our ongoing objective of reinforcing Gucci’s reputation for luxury, quality and craftsmanship in our products. This new service will provide a ‘trusted’ venue for transactions of vintage Gucci items thereby avoiding recourse to ‘uncontrolled’ auction sites such as eBay.”
Starting this week, the free service will be offered on a dedicated section of the Christie’s website, which will allow owners to upload photos of their vintage items and submit an appraisal request. Within two to four weeks, Gucci Collectors will receive an auction estimate prepared by Christie’s Director of Fashion and Textiles, Patricia Frost, and her team of costume specialists in collaboration with the Gucci Archive Department. Collectors will also be informed as to whether the product would be a good fit for an upcoming Christie’s vintage sale, or of interest to either Gucci or Christie’s from a historical standpoint. Participation in sales is completely voluntary for owners seeking appraisal, and prospective buyers can be assured that the products have received an official appraisal from one of the world’s most respected auction houses. This collaboration marks the first single fashion house specialization to be featured on the Christie’s site.
The Gucci Collector initiative coincides with the House’s plans to open a Gucci museum in Florence, the brand’s birthplace, just in time for Gucci’s 90th anniversary in 2011.
“The idea to establish a Gucci Museum is a way to celebrate the incredible story and heritage of this House, especially in anticipation of our 90th anniversary in 2011,” di Marco continues. “Gucci has an extremely ‘rich’ archive of vintage items that has never before been accessible to public viewing. Between now and the opening through the new Gucci Collector Service, it is quite possible that Gucci’s archivists, who are constantly on the look out for additional pieces of note, will add to this archive. The aim is to develop a dynamic and innovative experience, where visitors can appreciate and enjoy our history but at the same time understand how vibrant, and alive Gucci is today. Florence will be the location for the Museum as it is definitely the place to privilege—we have our roots here and Guccio Gucci started this phenomenal adventure in this city.”
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Visit www.gucci.com and www.christies.com.
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